So, you've decided to share your life (and possibly your entire couch) with a Great Dane? Congratulations! You’ve just welcomed a 100+ pound, lovable giant into your home—a decision that will bring joy, laughter, and a little bit of chaos.
Great Danes are known as “gentle giants,” but don't let the gentle part fool you—these dogs need room! If you think your Great Dane will curl up like a little lapdog, think again. They’ll stretch out like a full-grown human, leaving you clinging to the armrest for dear life.
Tip: Invest in an oversized dog bed… or just accept that your bed is now theirs.
These big babies have big appetites! Feeding a Great Dane is like stocking a small buffet daily. A high-quality diet is essential to support their massive frames and prevent health issues.
Pro Tip: Split meals into smaller portions throughout the day to help prevent bloat, a condition Danes are prone to.
Despite their size, Great Danes are not the marathon runners of the dog world. They enjoy a nice romp but won’t say no to a nap afterward. Too much vigorous exercise, especially when they’re young, can be hard on their joints.
Best Plan? Daily walks and moderate playtime work best. And remember, if they decide they’re done walking, good luck moving them.
A poorly trained Great Dane is like a runaway freight train. Imagine a 150-pound dog jumping on guests or pulling you down the street like a ragdoll. Yikes!
Smart Move: Start training early with positive reinforcement. Socialization is key—your Dane should know that sitting is better than barreling into Grandma.
Sofas, chairs, beds—nothing is off-limits when you live with a Great Dane. They somehow believe they’re the perfect size to curl up on your furniture… and who’s going to argue with them?
Solution: Either get a bigger couch or accept that you’ll always have a lap warmer, even if it crushes you.
Great Danes have hearts as big as their bodies—literally and figuratively. Unfortunately, they’re prone to certain health concerns like hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart disease.
Vet Check-Ups? Essential! Regular screenings and a good diet can help keep your Dane happy and healthy.
For all their size, Great Danes are absolute cuddle monsters. They’ll lean on you (literally) for affection, follow you from room to room, and rest their giant heads on your lap with those big, soulful eyes.
Be Ready: Your Dane will claim your heart just as quickly as they claim your bed.
Living with a Great Dane is a wild, wonderful ride filled with goofy antics, oversized love, and a little bit of slobber. If you can handle the size, the food bill, and the constant attention-seeking, you’ll have one of the most loyal, loving companions around.
